tamiya tractor trailer kits

[viper137]

Does anyone have any of tamiya's big rigs?
I'm looking to buy either a Ford Aeromax or a King Hauler, but I don't know which one.
Can anyone help me??? :confused:

[lawlaw]

Hi all,

I just got myself a Volvo FH12 about a month ago. Right now I'm painting the body and waiting for my ESC to come in. Can't wait to take this thing out. Anyone out there with one of those Tamiya tractor trailer trucks? I would like to hear anything about them...post pics of your truck...talk about add-on or mods you've done.

Since this is my first post (read newbie) I've decided to give a brief intro of myself. I was out of the hobby for the past 10 years...and decided to pick it up again recently. I've had my eyes on the Tamiya truck for a long time due to the detail and realism they have. I sold everything when I left the RC scene so now I'm starting from scratch. Right now I running the truck with:

Futaba 4VF TX with R127DF RX
LRP F1 Super Reverse (waiting)
Duratrax Sanyo 1700
Duratrax IntelliPeak Charger

Kits that I've had:

Grasshopper
Boomerang
959 (I miss this one)
Turbo Optima (blast to drive but it's a FORD)

That's it for now. Want to hear some reply before I put you all to sleep.

[Possumbot]

Don't those trux have the 3 speed trannies? If those aren't geared for torque, those things with like 10 cells, a BL motor, mucho speed........

[lawlaw]

Yes....the ESC came in and I took it out for a spin. I'm surprise how fast it went in third gear....almost too much speed for the suspension to handle. But 1st gear is nice and easy...lots of torque and acceleration is instantaneous.

Now I can't wait to order the complete light kit and a trailer. But that'll be another $300 hole out of my pocket.

[NitroRookie]

Post some pics of your big rig after you get and install the light kit and put the trailer on it.

[birdy233]

Here's my Rig modified...

[NitroRookie]

How did you make it so clod tires work on your Big Rig?

[birdy233]

Those are actually Wild Willy 2 wheels and tires, and all I had to do is a body lift!

[Rnold]

Hi Guys, just wanted to share a picture of my Tamiya 1/14 RC Truck King Hauler

Gear: Futaba 4-Channel Attack 4WD Radio w/ 3 Servos (steering, shifting gear and motorized support legs), MC210 ESC and Mabuchi 540-Type Motor.

Option Parts Installed:

1.) Truck Electrical Unit - includes working headlights, park lights, signal lights, brake lights, back-up horn
2.) Semi-Trailer Light - includes park lights and brake lights
3.) Motorized Support Legs - allows you to disengage the trailer remotely
4.) Animal Guard
5.) Roof Spoiler
6.) Telescopic Antenna
7.) Tractor Truck Sound Effects - realistic sound for engine start, engine shut down, idling, truck horn and revving sound
8.) Flatbed Semi-Trailer

[Rnold]

another picture!

[Rnold]

oopps :) forgot to attach it

[lawlaw]

Nice! Very nice....The animal guard looks best on the KH body. I just finished painting my Volvo body and I just mounted it to see how everything fits.

[lawlaw]

another angle

[lawlaw]

try this again....

[chickenmobilin]

Dont know if you guys drive trucks , but that King Hauler is what is affectionaly known as a "Chicken truck" All the lighting , chrome , beautiful!!!! WOOP WOOP!!!:D :D :D :D :D

[Rnold]

Originally posted by chickenmobilin
Dont know if you guys drive trucks , but that King Hauler is what is affectionaly known as a "Chicken truck" All the lighting , chrome , beautiful!!!! WOOP WOOP!!!:D :D :D :D :D

what do you mean by "Chicken truck"? :D

[Rnold]

here's another picture

[chickenmobilin]

Just a nickname truckers use to describe the hopped up trucks alot of owner operaters drive.

[Rnold]

chickenmobilin, that's interesting! :)

fyi guys, if you're planning to buy the Tractor Truck Sound Effects hop-up, the 3rd gear will be disabled and will be replaced with a function as horn.

also, if you also want to have the motorized support legs if you're planning to buy a trailer, it's better to buy them both at the same time. i had the semi-trailer first and the motorized support legs later and you know what, i had to remove all the wood laid out at the top of the semi-trailer to make way for the installation of the motorized support legs :D :D :D

[birdy233]

Picture of Aeromax #1

[chickenmobilin]

Are there any other message boards concerning Tamiya semis? I am getting ready to aquire one and want to find out as much info as possible. LMK

[Soya]

Anybody have axles for sale? I'm working on a project and i'm having a hard time finding some.

[chickenmobilin]

also looking for websites about these trucks , were to buy accesories , such as tthat grill guard on RNOLD king hauler. That thing is awesome!:cool: :cool: :cool:

[Rnold]

Originally posted by chickenmobilin
Are there any other message boards concerning Tamiya semis? I am getting ready to aquire one and want to find out as much info as possible. LMK

this is the first message board i encountered which has a topic about tamiya trailers.

anyway, hope this helps. Tamiya has about 4 types of semis:

1.) semi-trailer (which is the container van)
2.) flatbed trailer (the one I have in the pictures)
3.) tank trailer (this is like those of the gasoline trucks)
4.) pole trailer (same as mine but with poles included)

hop-ups available for semis:

1.) semi-trailer light set
2.) motorized support legs

[Rnold]

Originally posted by chickenmobilin
also looking for websites about these trucks , were to buy accesories , such as tthat grill guard on RNOLD king hauler. That thing is awesome!:cool: :cool: :cool:

all the accessories i installed in my king hauler are available in the LHS here in Philippines except for the telescopic antenna which I got from Bangkok.

[hpiguy]

Those are some nice looking trucks. I have been wanting one for awhile but have yet to convince the better half to let me buy one. I have over a dozen R/Cs now and can't find a good reason for her to let me have another. Especially one that will sit on display most of the time.

I only have one question about the trucks and that is about the styrene bodies.

How do you guys paint the bodies? With an air brush or spray cans? What type and colors did you use? How many coats or primer, base coats and top coats? Did you buff it or polish it in any way?

I have decades of R/C experience but almost none in painting the hard plastic bodies that Tamiya uses. At the price of the body kits I'd hate to ruin one of them.

Thanks.

[lawlaw]

What do you guys think?

http://members.rogers.com/poonlaw/DSCN1984.jpg

[birdy233]

I have my Aeromax up for sale or trade..

[RCBuddha]

Hey guys,

I'll be getting the 1850L soon. Does any one know where the best place to get accessories online? Could someone post the underside and suspension for me to look at? Thanks,

Buddha

[weeb_beano]

What kind of accessories are you thinking of getting? I know that GPM makes a bunch of aluminum bits (like animal guards, antennas, etc) for the 1850L but i found it most enjoyable when pretty much stock. The only performance option i did was to replace the stock aluminum dampers (that do nothing) with dampers from a touring car and that did a world of wonder to improve the truck's performance. Of course, i removed the springs from the dampers but left the leaf springs on the truck. 70 weight oil did the trick too.

I also downgraded the motor to a 380 sized can, with 9T pinion (from the Grasshopper) to get a more realistic horsepower/weight ratio. It still can haul 15 lbs of weight around in second gear without too much of a hitch. I don't have any pics of the suspension yet, but here are some other random shots of my rigs.

1850L with lights.
http://www.beanos.com/~tsoutij/images/gallery/truck_lights03.jpg

A Tamiya Mini Cooper parked inside the 1850L.
http://www.beanos.com/~tsoutij/images/gallery/truck_lights04.jpg

My Aeromax bodied 6WD/6WS Clod Buster based mutant.
http://www.beanos.com/~tsoutij/images/gallery/bashes/15-jun-2002/pic07.jpg

[RCBuddha]

Hi weeb,

thanks for the info. I'm going to attempt to raise my 1850L, and make it a "Unimog" style off road vehicle. I had the opportunity to drive my buddies rig, and that three speed is very cool. If you have some time, could you shoot some shots of the suspension for me, so i can do some pre-planning? Thanks,

Buddha

[weeb_beano]

I won't have photos for some time, since my gf has the camera... in either case here is some info that could be useful since at one time i had considered the same thing:

- The front axle uses a standard driveshaft similar to the Grasshopper. Ball bearings go into the rims and then into the driveshaft.

- The rear axle of the 1850L (and all other Tamiya rigs) is very narrow compared to the front. This is because it has dually tires on the rear.

- The rear axle uses a standard 12mm hex.

- I had considered using the rims/tires from the Wild Willy. To fit these tires the leaf springs from the Juggernaut2 will work perfectly. If you want stiffer suspension, use the leafs from the Mammoth Dump truck (they have 5 leaves, instead of the Jugg's 3)

- Because of the difference in tread between front and rear axles, some work needs to be done to fit some rims, the front will be almost 1" wider because of this.

Hope this helps.

[RCBuddha]

Thanks for the info, my purchase date is fast approaching, so as soon as I get it, I will start making mods. I'll post some pics when the project gets underway...Thanks again,

Buddha

[Monster Madness]

Heres my globe liner...

http://mediaservice.photoisland.com/auction/Sep/20029305748950112863797.jpg

http://mediaservice.photoisland.com/auction/Sep/20029301914743881935511.jpg



:cool:

[Monster Madness]

Over at monstermadness.net we sell after market 1/8 inch T-6 aluminum front bumpers which fit the tamiya Globe Liner and King Hauler. They of course are better then stock, and allow much added clearence for the ability to drive in the grass and stuff. :cool:

http://mediaservice.photoisland.com/auction/Oct/20021068909321335162468.jpg

http://mediaservice.photoisland.com/auction/Oct/20021067728186704002145.jpg

[CJ-5]

Hey weeb, or anyone else. Can someone make me a parts list of the rear axle of the semi? I want to get a rear axle and make it fit into my custom chassis for a dually pickup. Robbe axlea are too much to buy another set someone please help me:)

[seca95]

on the truck with the two rear axles, are they both powered or is the rear one just free rolling?

[BlazerSport4x4]

Both axles in the duel rear axle trucks are powered the front diff has an input shaft and and output shaft there is a small dogbone between the two.

[amazeing]

Originally posted by RCBuddha
Thanks for the info, my purchase date is fast approaching, so as soon as I get it, I will start making mods. I'll post some pics when the project gets underway...Thanks again,

Buddha


i thought that truck was real:eek:
then i saw the bushes:rolleyes:
anyways sweet truck

[CBlakeNS]

Those things look awsome.. and very real.... sept the purple one lol :D I guess you could see a purple truck :o Not normally though.. anyways are they really fun to play with?

[huasze]

hey, really great tractors there everyone! i've been wanting a clod buster for sometime since i sold off my txt-1. now maybe i'll go for a tractor!

hpiguy: about your question on painting: if you ruin the shell, polycarbonate ones definitely can be renewed by dipping in petrol which washes away all the paint. for these hard bodies, i'm not sure if petrol dissolves them. you gotta ask a chemical expert.

[shawnr5]

huasze, these bodies are polystyrene. If you don't like the paint, you can soak them in EZ-Off oven cleaner or go to your LHS and they should have paint removers.

[Papanoel]

I'm so tempted to buy the king hauler and paint it up like the semi from knight rider.

[379]

are these rigs convertible to nitro power if they are u can dieselize the nitro motor and make the stacks work just like the real rig i know if i get one i will try to do these mods to it

[dabait]

http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/Building/2003-04-27/thumbs/P4270079.jpg

I know when I first got interested in these trucks, I was really curious what the construction was like. I had limited success finding any information about these... but I did find others who had all the same questions.

Anyway, I took the plunge and purchased a Globe Liner and the Pole Trailer. I chose this truck because it had the tandem rear axle, and was "American" looking... and cheaper than the Aeromax and King-Hauler :o I opted for the Pole Trailer because it was the cheapest... I was interested in kit-bashing my own trailer eventually, and figured this would have the parts I was most interested in like the axles and such.

Anyway, I took some pictures and notes along the way during construction, and posted them to my website (http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/). I need to update it with the final bits of information, but there's enough there to whet the appetite of most curious folks ( the photos on the main page are directly from Tamiya.com).

Also, I got the Sound Unit and have been unsuccessful getting it to work cleanly. I've got a Novak Rooster reversible speed controller, and a servo to operate the gearbox, and another for the steering... all that works fine by itself. The problem I'm having is that the sound unit will occasionally play the "stop engine" sound when just starting to accelerate from a stop... the truck will start rolling and then the sound unit will play the "start engine" sound and work OK.

Instead of running the transmission servo through the sound unit (replaces 3rd gear with "horn" noise), I opted to pipe through a 4th channel so I retained full gearbox control. I don't see how this would affect the throttle sounds operation, but...:confused:

[379]

i like the cabover but can they become nitro powered i dont like electric all that much but since i am a trucker id like a rc cabover to contrast my regular cab pete 379 can the tranny handle the torque of a nitro 4stroke or the isanely extreme rpms of the 2stroke nitro then i wouldnt need the sound unit eh? and can move mor crap per pound than with electric power on the same gearbox if said tranny wont melt/strip itself to hell in the process thanx

[dabait]

I suppose a nitro conversion would be possible, but I'm not sure how well the truck would hold up to it. The long-nose kits would probably be a little easier to work with, but I don't think you'd have much luck getting an engine under the nose area... I think they would give you more cab+sleeper area though.

A slipper clutch would probably be a good idea to reduce shock to the drive train. The diffs look like standard Tamiya metal-gear fare, but the tranny is all plastic gears. It might be best to eliminate this component to improve reliability and to gain cab real-estate.

So, engine + clutch + fuel-tank + exhaust-pipe ... that can start taking up a fair amount of room. They are about as wide as a 1/10th scale car, a bit longer too (overall). You'd lose reverse unless you retro-fitted some other nitro reversing gearbox in there.

I don't know... given time and access to parts from other kits, I think you could do it, I'm just not sure the end results would be up to the abuse.

[379]

so a cabover would be harder to convert well i guess i will try to get a .12 the king hauler and apropriate stuffage to stuff in the sleeper thanx as far as plastic nitro driveline parts as long as i dont overload it i should be fine with the stock tranny as for exhaust some nitro fuel tubing around the stinger and routed where the fake stacks go will do the trick im not opting for insane top end here just the ooooomph the nitro would give compared to the electri motors involved plus i agree ther is a starting problem with the cabover acually getting to the p/s and gloplug the longnose i could simply articulate the hood for perfect starting and cut the grill lines out instead of painting them in for cooling hot air goes in the engine and out from under the hood but i would have to articulate the entire body on the cabover even with a starter box i will never get nuff ramblin now its finding some green to acually do it

[Adanmtxt1]

Hi!
Im sorry to interrupt here, but I have had my eye on the Globe Liner for a while, and I have a few questions.

1-what radio has a shifting plate so i can change gears? I looked and i cant find any

2-how do you paint the body? Do you need a over coat to make the body shiny, or does it just 'happen'?

3-Is the truck worth the money and time?

thank you so much, because i cant get any answers anywhere else!

[dabait]

1-what radio has a shifting plate so i can change gears? I looked and i cant find any

The transmission only requires a single servo. 1st gear would be at one end, 2nd in the middle, and 3rd at the other end. No special plate is required (like on the 4x4 trucks), but a 3-position servo switch is nice. I use the non-sprung throttle stick. Or, you can elect to just fix the transmission in 1st, 2nd or 3rd and use a standard 2-channel radio.

2-how do you paint the body? Do you need a over coat to make the body shiny, or does it just 'happen'?

The body is hard, opaque styrene. Any paint intended for plastic models is fine. Acrylic or enamel would work. Hobby paints intended for lexan bodies are not appropriate for these... they would adhere fine, but they don't dry glossy.

3-Is the truck worth the money and time?

That's a very subjective question. I very much enjoy building kits, so they are definitely worth the time. They are expensive... it's just a matter of what you're willing to spend for a hobby. One difference between these and most other RC cars is that they also work well as a display model... great detail and all.

[Adanmtxt1]

thank you very much! i really like the detail of these trucks!

when shifting through the gears, how do you keep from accidentally staying inbetween 2 gears? do you move the stick from left to right, or up or down?

[dabait]

Well, I'm using a 2-stick transmitter... actually a 9-channel radio! I control the transmission with the stick that ordinarily operates the throttle on power-planes (left stick, up/down).

At full up or down, it is solidly engaged in 1st or 3rd. Somewhere about the middle of the throw is 2nd. I just have to be careful because you can end up between gears. There is just a small bit in the servo travel where you'd be between gears, so it's not that bad of a problem.

In my opinion, 3rd gear is too fast for these trucks anyway... I will probably modify my setup so the gear selector is on one of the transmitter toggle switches (like for landing gear)... once I set the end-point-adjustments, then I can guarantee I'll only be hit 1st and 2nd... not 3rd, and nothing between :D

[lawlaw]

If you don't intend to have the capability of releasing your trailer from the remote then even a 3-ch radio works fine. That's what I'm using to run my FH12. I prefer pistol radio.

What I do is program the 3rd channel as a 4 position switch. Position one is neutral (so I can disengage all gears to push the truck without dragging the motor). Positive 2, 3, 4 is 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear. With this setup the shifting servo is pre-programmed to stop at different positions so I won't be in between gears while running it.

[dabait]

That sounds like an excellent setup. I have an older Airtronics pistol-grip radio that has a 3rd channel, but it's not programmable like that.

I've got half-dozen pistol grips that I've collected over time... HPI Savage, HPI Micro RS4, Mini-Z, Overland, etc, and they are much better for cars that the stick-type.

I'll have to look into the radio you mentioned! I especially like the concept of neutral ... very clever! What brand/model?

[lawlaw]

I'm using a Futaba 3PDF. It's the only Futaba pistol radio that allows the 3rd channel to be used as a 4p switch. Even the new top-of-the-line 3PK is only a 3p switch.

Other radio you can consider is the older KO EX11, or the Airtronics M8. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think they allow at least 4 positions to be programmed for the 3rd channel.

[lawlaw]

BTW...here's my finished (finally) FH12. Hope you guys like it....

http://members.rogers.com/poonlaw/DSCN2313w.jpg

http://members.rogers.com/poonlaw/DSCN2314w.jpg

[dabait]

Nice detail work there! I especially like the painted detail behind the cab... I hadn't even thought about that.

In addition to my Globeliner, I also have that truck, but it's not quite done. It's painted (red), and most of the decals are in place, but I haven't affixed the wipers or the grab handles under the windshield.

I haven't done the black painted details either... around the windshield, side windows, door handles, etc... but, I have painted the exhaust pipe on the side skirt.

I wasn't sure about painting those areas... afraid of messing up the nice red. Did you hand-paint those or spray? How tough was the masking job to get such clean lines?

Anyway... excellent work!

[lil_general_lee]

I ordered a Ford Aeromax, Box trailer, Bearings, Alloy oil shocks, Alloy wheels, Motorized support legs, Light kit for truck, and trailer light kit and sound kit. How many channels would I need to make full use of all these goodies. BTW - Everything but the tractor and alloy wheels has arrived so far :( I also found out the day after I ordered all the stuff tamiya is coming out with a multifunction unit for the knight hauler. The multifunction unit includes all the lights and sounds... With the addition of a vibration unit. The unit will fit and work in all the older trucks as well, which sucks because I wont have the vibration effect :( What suprises me is how heavy everything is - it's a wonder one stock motor can pull the truck along. Anyways, I can't wait for my tractor to arrive so I can get to building.

[dabait]

Yikes! You don't do things part way, do you? :D That's going to be an awesome setup once you get everything together.

The truck alone will require 2 servos + ESC (so 3 channels)

The sound unit doesn't require any channels, but I recommend a slight modification to the installation. The instructions say to pipe the shift-servo through it -- then, it will only let you shift between 1st and 2nd, and trying to shift to 3rd will sound the horn. I used a free channel on my transmitter instead so I have independent horn control and all three speeds.

I don't think the electrical unit (lights) will require any channels.

The motorized leg kit will use one channel to release the kingpin. I'm not certain how the legs operate... a manual switch? Regardless, you will have to manually disconnect the plug to the trailer light kit.

So, I'm guessing 4 if you don't mind losing 3rd gear... 5 channels if you want full, independent control.

Keep up posted on your progress!

[Adanmtxt1]

thats a great looking truck! i hope mine turns out half as good...

how well do the light kits work? Do they activate the winker signals every time you make a tiny adjustment in steering?

do you guys recommend getting a faster motor to pull this heavy of a truck?

how long does the Globe Liner take to build?

[lawlaw]

Thanks for the compliment dabit! :)

To be honest this is my first body and there're a few screw ups here and there. You can't really see them from the pictures but like the old saying...good from far but far from good! :D

The black details aren't that hard to do. I hand painted them with parma fastcolor then a layer of clear coat. I'll list all the details on how I painted this one.

The purple color is straight from the Tamiya spray cans. Forgot the paint code but it's a dark purple. Then I spray a thin layer of clear coat on top.

I used two different methods to do the black areas. The grill, air intake pipe, gas tank, wiper blades, and the rear wheel fender are painted with Tamiya flat black spray cans to give it a matte finish. Then clear coat to top it off.

The details around the doors, windshield, door handle are hand painted with parma fastcolor. I only use masking for the door handle, the molding around the windshield, and the border around the "Globetrotter" sticker. The rest are done with a very thin brush. The beauty of the parma is you can remove the paint (even after it dried) with a moist paper towel. So I just clean the overshoots with that. Once I'm happy with it then I spray a final layer of clear coat to protect it.

The silver detail on the grill, exhaust, and behind the cab are done with those silver chrome markers. Not too tough and I didn't mask. But I spent a lot of time trying to get used to the way these markers work. You have to make sure there isn't too much silver ink on the marker tip otherwise you'll end up with thick glob of silver on the body, but yet there has to be enough ink to allow you to complete the line with one single stroke. I would say the most difficult part is to get the grill to look right.

Adanmtxt1: I might as well answer your question. These truck aren't meant to be fast. You really don't need a fast motor but you need one with lots of torque. I'm using the LRP Truck Puller motor on mine. This motor peaks at 6500rpm (about 1/3 of the stock motor that came with these kit) but the torque is almost triple. I imported this motor from the UK as LRP doesn't sell their motors here. Let me know if you want to order this motor and I'll show you where to get it.

[dabait]

Originally posted by Adanmtxt1
...

how long does the Globe Liner take to build?

I spent about 12 hours total to build mine... take a look here:
http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/

I sort of documented the construction of mine because a few other people were interested. I've built a lot of RC cars (and planes and boats), but nothing this complex mechanically. There are a LOT of nuts and bolts... but that's what I liked about it.

BTW, the Globeliner parts bags aren't setup so you use all of (A) parts, then (B) parts and then (C) parts, etc... you pretty much have to dump them all out into separate bowls or tins (put the bag label in the bowl), and the instructions tell you which parts from which bags are required in each step.

The Volvo was different ... more like other RC kits I've built. You start with the (A) bag and use those parts, then you move on to the (B) bag and so on.

[Adanmtxt1]

Lawlaw;

could you please show me where that motor is? i am considering the tanker trailer, which is about 9 1/2 pounds, so i need torque!!!

also, how do the support legs operate? can they really support the trailer w/o the truck?

does the trailer hitch really unhitch the trailer too?

[lawlaw]

This is the motor that I talked about LRP Truck Puller (http://www.lrp-electronic.de/e/products/motors/klasse_e.htm).

To order it go here (http://www.modelsportuk.com/). It's under Modified Motor by LRP. There is a 7.2V and 12V version of the same motor so remember to specifiy you want the 7.2V when you order.

Edit: Found out the motor link doesn't work right. Just click on Product -> Motors then you'll see the one I'm talking about.

[lil_general_lee]

That truck puller motor looks pretty sweet but I can't decide if it's worth all the trouble to get. What are the pros and cons compared to an average "high torque" stock motor? Lasty, What about a 550 motor? Is there enough room for it ?

[lawlaw]

Average high torque stock motor....I guess I'll use the Trinity P2k2 Pro as an example.

P2k2 Pro:

Speed: 30000 rpm
Torque: 170 N-mm
27 turn stock, bushing on motor shaft

LRP Truck Puller:

Speed: 6500 rpm
Torque: 320 N-mm
80 turn modified, double ball bearings on shaft

With the LRP the truck would run at a much more realistic speed and the torque output is almost double than the P2k2, which is consider as a high torque stock motor. Another advantage is battery life. I can drive the truck for almost 45 mins with a 1700mah battery.

I'm not sure about the other truck bodies but with the Volvo (and the similar Benz 1838) a 550 motor is not possible. Reason being the shift servo is mount right in front of the motor so a 550 motor won't fit for sure.

[weeb_beano]

I don't think you will really need a highly modded motor to get any of these trucks going... in fact i deliberately downrated the motor in my 1850L box truck to a 380 sized can, with 9T pinion.

It handles much more realistically with that motor, and the truck is the heaviest of the truck kits (without counting the trailers) because of the box section on board. For fun i put a 15lb dumbbell in the back and it was still driveable all the way up to 2nd gear.

[2.5 guy]

Originally posted by Rnold
here's another picture

Any trailer lights?

[hoho]

king

[hoho]

king_2

[hoho]

king_3

[Adanmtxt1]

nice truck; got enough pictures there?!

but seriously, 45 minutes with only a 1700 mAh pack? i could get an hour while using my 2400 packs! how much $ is the truck puller motor is U.S. dollars?

[lawlaw]

Modelsport UK lists it at 30 which is like $50US. Then with shipping (which is like another $10 from what I remember) you're looking at around $70US by the time it gets to you.

[weeb_beano]

Originally posted by Adanmtxt1
nice truck; got enough pictures there?!

but seriously, 45 minutes with only a 1700 mAh pack? i could get an hour while using my 2400 packs!

I don't see what's to brag about :)
Using the ratio of 45 min / 1700mAH yields 63 min if he was using a 2400mAH battery. He's theoretically going to get three more minutes than you when apples are compared to apples, not oranges.

[lawlaw]

To be honest I never really timed it officially. It's more or less 45 mins from what I remember and that's enough driving for me at once, and definitely a lot longer runtime than the stock 540 that came with the kit. And that was done with all the lights switched on.

Really depends on the shape of your pack and your charger.

[lil_general_lee]

I'm still trying to decide what radio to get, I want something that will make each function intependent. I figure it would be at least 6 channels. Let me know if you think this would work?

one channel set for steering
one channel set for throttle
one channel with 3 - 4 position switch set for shift
one channel set for trailer release
one channel with 3 position switch set for turn signal
one channel set for horn

In order to make all the sounds correct I'm thinking if I bypass the steering servo from the DDS unit and plug in another servo to control the turn signal switch, and bypass the shift servo and put a micro servo in it's place, the sounds would all be correct with full control.

I have one more question. In the instruction manual for the sound kit it says that the engine braking sound can be heard if you push the throttle stick slightly forard or backward, Does that mean everytime you want to go slow in forward or reverse you'll hear the engine braking sound ?

[dabait]

I thought the turn signals were activated by a micro switch, but either way, you could use a separate channel/servo to actuate it.

The air-brake sound (apply and release) is automatic... I think any time you transition from a stop to moving (forward or reverse), or vice-versa, you will get the sound effect.

I just got the Futaba 3-channel pistol-type radio that was recommended here, but I haven't had a chance to switch over to it. Looks like it will be a pretty nice setup... not as advanced as what you are putting together though!

Keep us posted!

[lil_general_lee]

Sounds pretty sweet dabait. I would prefer a pistol style radio rather then a stick but they don't make one with more then 3 channels.

I'm sending the truck body off tomorrow to get painted with 2 stage automotive paint, The only bad thing is that the body is holding back the final wiring process. I can't believe how much wiring and stuff is going on inside the cab. So far the only thing thats completely finished is the trailer. I am really impressed with the way the motorized legs work, The manual switch operation is impressive but the servo activated operation is really trick.

Anyone have any experience with a Novak Super Rooster. Is it worth getting or would a smaller ESC be more desirable?

[dabait]

I've just got the Rooster Reversible... not sure you'd need the Super Rooster unless you're planning something wild in the motor department.

There is a lot of wiring, and I imagine the electrical (lighting) kit really complicates things. I ended removing the interior bits (dashboard and seats). I think you should be OK on space, but perhaps building a platform of some type over the motor will help.

One thing to watch is interference... I was doing OK when I routed the antenna just around the interior, but after installing the Sound FX unit, I was getting horrible interference... cause major problems! I guess I should bite the bullet and use the provided aerial.

[lil_general_lee]

I was wondering about the DDS unit and signal interference since it interacts directly with the receiver. I actually like the provided aerial, looks pretty realistic actually, at least the one on the knight hauler did.

Dabait - Where did you put your speaker/speaker box? I think the Aeromax will be speaker friendly since I can mount it in the cab fairing. They say to cut holes in the body for clear sound and mount it under the cab deck so the sound travels up and out of the cab, but in order to save room and look realistic I think I'll put it on top of the deck without holes. Hopefully the sound will travel down and out the bottom of the rig, if it doesn't I'm not too worried but would be nice.

[dabait]

Man, the instructions for the sound unit were pretty pathetic. For the Globeliner, it showed using the speaker enclosure and mounting it so it aims out through the grill. They vaguely refer to having to trim some plastic on the cab floor in order to make the speaker fit. Well, after much trimming and fiddling, I determined that it would NOT fit with the dashboard in place (hence, my removal of the interior).

The module portion is mounted to the back of the speaker, and the volume control is mounted in the front left corner... it's not real easy to reach there, so I might relocate it towards the rear or perhaps down-aiming so I can adjust it from beneath.

I haven't determined exactly which part was causing the interference... I ended up with my antenna wire routed well clear of ALL sound unit wiring and components... that seemed to resolve the issue.

I'll try to get some pictures of the truck with the cab off soon.

[lil_general_lee]

Yeah, the instructions were pretty bad, The Aeromax has two mounting posibilities. One using the huge box right in the middle of the chassis, and the other under the body deck. The large box seems like a waste of space - So I think I'll put it on top of the deck. How is the sound quality? I scrolled back a few pages and noticed you are running the same set up I was thinking. You mentioned it plays the engine start or stop sound when you just apply throttle. Have you tried hooking it up normal to see if that makes it ork normal, if so I'll have to re-think my ESC/Shift/horn set up.

[dabait]

The problem I had with it playing the engine start/stop noises all the time was due to the radio interference... it was glitching enough to really confuse the module. Set it up as I described, be careful when routing the antenna wire, and you should be good to go.

I'm not real impressed with the overall quality. Most of the sound sampling is good, but the way it transitions from one sound to another can be rough. The engine-stop (shutdown) noise is probably about the worse, but that's not something you hear too much anyway.

The engine acceleration sounds good, but with my current setup I don't hear it going much above "idle"... I don't use very much stick (or throttle) when accelerating, so I rarely get to hear the engine "rpm's" spin up.

If I could find a high-torque/low-rpm motor, I think that would solve that... perhaps the speed controller is just too efficient :D

[lil_general_lee]

I can't wait to get my semi body back. :( It's off getting painted 1994 Chevy Canary Yellow. A Ford painted a Chevy color :confused: lol. Anyone know what the status is on the aluminum rear wheels. The hobby shop says backordered till August and Tower only has one pair :(

Dabait - The Super Rooster looks like it fits comfortably on the chassis, even with the seats and other stuff installed. Too bad you don't have a "slant nose" style truck or I'd ask how much room is in the "engine bay"

[dabait]

I just got around to switching over to the 3-channel Futaba radio. It was a snap to setup, and the gear selector works great!

The receiver is a fair bit smaller than the 4-channel Airtronics unit I had in there, and the antenna is much shorter so routing it will be easier.

Here's a photo of the cab layout for my Globeliner:

http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/Globeliner-Layout.jpg

I can't wait to see pictures of your truck when you're done... should look awesome! Have you thought of having the trailer painted to match? I bet that'd look pretty slick... like a fully custom, independently operated tractor/trailer.

[lil_general_lee]

Well, I was thinking of what color to make the trailer if I wanted to alter its look. Originally I wanted to paint the rig black and leave the trailer natural, since black would make the chrome stand out and the natural aluminum color would look good with it. After pondering the idea I decided to paint the rig yellow since an all black rig would look kind of bland and not show too much of the detail compared to yellow. If I were to color the trailer however it would probably be all black or white. I like the idea of using contact paper - quick and easy trailer color changes without actually painting the surfaces. No mess and no permanent application. If I don't like the way the trailer looks, try a new color. I'm kind of suprised how many yellow rigs are on this forum. You'd think someone would have a bright red rig or blue rig but - lol.

As far as your rig goes dabait - Looks pretty well layed out. I think I'd have to save more space though :( I don't like how much room the speaker box takes up so I think I'll scrap that speaker option, lol. Thanks for the pic, btw - doesn't that box muffle the sound. I'll try to get some pictures of my rig when I get it back from the paint shop. I hope it comes out as good as I think it will. It's getting painted with 2 stage automotive paint and I've seen some of their other models and they look out of this world. One thing that worries me is hiding the rigs wires.. I was thinking of running them through a "tube" that runs through the chassis cross braces, but I'm not quite ready to drill holes in them yet. Any ideas on how to hide them so they arn't noticable?

[egdinger]

Wheres the place to get one of these for the least cash, I'm in good ol usa.

[dabait]

I bought my Globeliner and trailer from Tower Hobbies... price was pretty good and I've never had a problem with an order through them.

I bought my Volvo from Stella models on EBay. They have "Buy-it-now" deals that are real good, but shipping is expensive. Overall, the price is better than I could find domestically. If you combine multiple purchases (e.g., truck + trailer + etc), you can probably get a good discount on shipping (I did). Stella models is in Hong Kong, and they ship via air-mail... took about a week to get it.

BTW, finally got around to snapping some "done" pictures today:
http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/Globeliner-done-1.jpg

http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/Globeliner-done-5.jpg

If you look closely, you can see I'm missing the lens for the right fog light :mad: It fell out somewhere when I was driving around today. I was crawling around on the ground like I'd lost a contact :D

For more picks, click here (http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/).

I'm going to buy a second trailer to go with my Volvo... don't know whether I want the flatbed or the van though :confused:

[maX energ]

hey, also instead of having the pipes you can get some logs on there...thats what i put on my flatbed trailer...i alway found a realistic forklift (old...!!) that i had on it...i got the..
king hauler, rooster esc, sound light and trailer light kit. and bearings in the trailer. the truck is fun...straight up fun! once i was drving with a heavy load, of...a full metal forklift, stone and i was doing bout 10 purrr.. and like some guy was like the horn work!? and i had my trucks volume like all the way up and i let her squeal and he was like YEAA!!! lol...its fun watching little kids get hyponotised by my king hauler too lol

[maX energ]

have you tried to mount the rear part of your pole trailer on top of where the fifth wheel is? Thats what the loggers to...why? i donno...the boom of the trailer then it point up wards at like a 60 degree angle..my favorite truck EVER.. too 1948 peterbilt 350...

http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/pix/trucks/shelton/2001/48_pb_350_logging_truck_tim_vail2.jpg

[dabait]

I thought about that, but I'd need some sort of rack on the back of the cab to support the arm and keep it centered. The logging trucks around here have a metal structure where the tops slant towards the center so the trailer can just be dropped over the tail of the truck and the pole will self-center.

Most the time, I only see the trucks loaded... I need to find one heading back to get a load so I can see how they keep the trailer in place.

I should also look for some branches that have a scale-like appearance.

EDIT: hehe... just looked at the picture you linked... that makes is plainly obvious how they keep the trailer from sliding off :D

But... not sure I've ever seen a cab-over w/sleeper used for logging... they're always long-nose short-cabs just like in that picture.

[maX energ]

i had some branches on my flat bed, but i like this old forklift i found in my basment...i have the sound kit...and i just changed the wiring so i can have my horn back...i love 3rd gear lol...............buts its toooo fast for a trailer...WAY TO FAST lol i forgot how fast it was lol...also you people should check out ... www.rc4wd.com go the bruiser section and look at the shift gate, hey the tractor trucks are 3 speeds too! :)

[NMT_RACER_BOY]

what do you guys think about the new night hauler?
I want one of these but they are expensive...

[maX energ]

the knight hauler?...i guess its ok...but i wish tamiya would make a seperate vibration unit for the other kits...what i dont like...: the blue...its molded in that dark blue mica colour...

[sickdrummer]

hi,
im new to the forum but i have a tractor as well
i have the
tamiya King Hauler with full ball bearings.
Super Rooster ESC,Sound Unit, Full light kit and Futaba Fm 4 Ch radio(Sky Sport i think)
I have the Tamiya Flat Bed Trailer with the light kit for that as well.

i have full control of the tranny because of the 4 chs but i usually leave it in second because 3rd is too fast and could possibly tip over.

I kept the 540 it kept with and still am using it today and running strong it is about a yr and a half old now but that motor is fast enough for me. and plus it is good on batts too. i run 3000's and 2000's and get super long run times with it. even with the lights on. but the sound is always on.
I will take some pics of mine and post them here this week. its my first big rig so it may not look as good as yours all do (not too shiny)
sorry so long
thanks
Paul

[lawlaw]

what i dont like...: the blue...its molded in that dark blue mica colour...

That's what I thought at the first place too...but take a look at this...I guess it's just like the other kits. It's not painted.

Apparently there are two Knight Hauler kits. One of them comes with the truck only (the one below) and the other one is a full blown complete package. Comes with 4-ch radio, painted cab (in blue), the multi-function unit, batt and charger. Available in Japan only (for now) and MSRP is $880USD from the Yen conversion.

http://www.jasminepeking.com/stellamodels/tamiya/56314_2.jpg

Picture credit goes to stellamodels from ebay. They have very good price on all Tamiya tractors and accessories but shipping is very expensive (all the way from Hong Kong). But can save a bit on shipping and worthwhile if you're buying everything at once from them.

[maX energ]

thanks for the info!, i didnt know that...

i wanna get a new king hauler body, whict you can on tower but i dont feel like re doing all my electical and body work...ugh lol it took me long enuff first time around lol

[sickdrummer]

i wanna get another kinghauler body too and make the paint job 10 times nicer but i would have to re order the stickers i guess too.and your right about the electronics too all the lights and stuff and the speaker.

PS: By the way in your KING Hauler where did you mount the Speaker?
mine is just hanging in the wind.
let me know
thanks
Paul.

[lil_general_lee]

Well sick, I don't have a king hauler but in my instructions it says to use either speaker option "C Type" or "B Type." I'd actually scrap both those ideas and find your own mounting location. I wouldn't use the box type (Option B) since it only has a small hole for sound to pass. If possible I'd mount right behind the grill like on dabaits globe liner, but try to attach it to the body with speaker option A if it will fit.

BTW - I got the dash board, seats, fenders, mirrors and cab lights back yesterday and they look sweet. I picked out the color chip that I liked so the body should be here in a week or so depending on how the painting process goes. I guess it needs 9 coats of paint plus the backing coat and clear coat :( I also put the oil shocks on and I have to say they work better without oil. Tamiyas oil shock design for the trucks isn't very good. I may try sticking a piece of foam in the shock bodies to act as a VCS style shock. They are emulsion style shocks which mixes the air and oil together, and they always have an air bubble in it when they sit. Well, since tamiya mounts the shocks inverted the shock piston is always in the air bubble virtually making them useless. At least I can say they are all blue instead of pink and silver.

[1/8buggyman]

Do any of you guys know anything about the guy that runs this site? Is his stuff quality? Are the prices ok?
The site is:
http://www.customrcmodels.com/id371.htm

[dabait]

In all my searches, I'd never come across that site! Obviously, I've never heard of this operation, but I'm willing to give them some business to test the waters.

Thanks for sharing the URL!

dave

[1/8buggyman]

Yea sure. That guys got some pretty cool stuff. I tried to send him an email asking about a few things, and I haven't gotten a reply. I sent it 7 days ago.

[sickdrummer]

i have 2 questions i have a king hauler.
and i want to know if anyone put alittle bigger off road looking tires on there tractor for more ground clearance? if so where can you get them and what will fit?

Second Does anyone use the 3pka PCM futaba radio with there tractor is so how did you set up your shift points with the 3rd channel cause there is like so many ways you can use the 3rd channel and the part i want to use is the 3 way switch but they dont go into detail with this so wanted to know if anyone had tried it and can help me out
let me know thanks in advance
Paul

[dabait]

The URL that 1/8buggyman posted had some pictures of some tires/wheels like what you're looking for. They looked to be from Tamiya's S10, Jeep, or Pajero kits.

Look here (http://www.customrcmodels.com/id306.htm). This guy is doing something custom for the dually setup on the back axles. You should be able to order the wheels and tires from Tower or Tamiya directly... they should bolt to the hub, but I'm not sure if you're going to have clearance issues... if so, be prepared to do some sort of body lift.

ACtually, there are some setups that look to be just a single, wide wheel in the back.

Also look here (http://www.customrcmodels.com/id371.htm) for more pictures and ideas.

[sickdrummer]

yeah im goin to see if i can find a rim to fit the fronts and fit the backs to change out the tires.

By the way i went to tamiya.com and checked out the new knight hauler and man that is sick. they have 4 videos and the vibration unit is awsome it also seems the the sound is much improved on this model. i wonder if that kit would work in the King Hauler? if not im thinking of selling im king hauler with the full light kit,sound and full ball bearings and just getting the knight hauler with that all in one kit that has the lights sound,vibration and all in one package.but if i can get that to work in the king hauler i will keep mine and sell my stuff indivually and just add that kit. if it fits. What do you guys think? i know i have to wait Tower Hobbies says it wont be out till Mid Aug. so we will see if anyone here gets it and reviews it.
thanks
Paul

[sickdrummer]

that mulit function unit i just looked up on ebay and its selling for a good pice and all but it also a ESC as well. and i dont think you would get as good run times with that as you would a super rooster and you can only use the stock 540 motor with it ,it says or the unit may malfunction. so i gues it is a cheesey tamiya speedo intergrated into the sound unit. that sucks cause i was goin to sell my lights and sound and get this one but id ont want to use there speedo over my super rooster. cause i wont get as good run times as i do now (1hr with 3000s). damn theres always a catch. i just wish there was more info about this unit so i can make my choice.
well if anyone can help let me know
thanks
Paul

[1/8buggyman]

Hey guys, I would like to know which radio you use. I was looking for one, particularly with a 4 way switch, but I could only find one with a 3 way switch. So let me know which one you use. Thanks for the help.

[dabait]

I use the Futaba 3PDF-X. The third-channel is programmable, so you can have it 3 or 4 position. It's a momentary toggle button, so each time you bump it up, it goes from 1 to 2 to 3 to 4... bump it down and it reverses the sequence.

Each stop in the sequence can be independently programmed. The switch is on the same side of the TX as the wheel-control, just in front of it.

See it at TowerHobbies (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXDNY0**&P=0)

[sickdrummer]

any one get the knigh hauler yet?

[sickdrummer]

hey got a question for you guys using a 3 channel radio with this thing
i have the 3pk PCM radio and full light kit and sound kit. now it says if you use a 3 channel radio you loose 3rd gear so that you can blow the horn. Ok now i hooked it up the way they said and i loose the opposite gear i loose first gear and keep 2nd and 3rd. tried servo reversing and all that but no go. now was there a miss print
and you were suposed to loos 1st instead of 3rd. or is there somthing i have to do to reverse it so i get first and second i mean i dont mind the other 2 but when you try to stop it in 2nd and especially 3rd it dont stop for ****. so i used to down shift with my 4ch to first then it the break and it would stop on a dime in emergency situations. i was just wondering if i can reverse this to get 1,2nd and horn.
because i sold my 4ch radio.
and if knight hauler dont want to use anthing else but a 4ch looks like im goin back to a 4ch but unitl then any ideas. besides 3rd gear is too fast.

And one more question in which gear do you think you will get the most battery life while running? id say 3rd cause it seems the be the smoothest but i could be wrong.
let me know
thanks
Paul

[weeb_beano]

I personally think the best way to go about all of this is to just get as many channels as you can in the beginning. Its just a better investment. These are scale trucks, you simply never know what you are going to want to add on it.

I had a 6CH Futaba radio and ran out of channels very quickly! Three for steering, gearshift, and throttle. One more proportional channel to make a driver's head figure turn right and left. One more for turning the lights on and off, and then one more for manually controlling the signal blinkers.

I picked up a surface frequency module Futaba T9CAP and its been a blast. Not only do you get 8 usable channels, (9 if you have the right PCM receiver) but every switch/knob on the radio is programmable to map to specific functions.

I don't know what you are encountering btw, drummer. Sorry, no idea at all... its kinda odd. The only thing i can think of is that you are using a hitec servo (which rotates opposite to futaba's), and with the sound system being keyed to futaba you either need to use one of their servos, or reverse the servo saver head so the throw is reversed... effectively making 1st and 2nd gear switch accordingly instead of 2-3.

[sickdrummer]

hi,
thanks for your response. your right you do need alot of channels. i may have to go back to a 4ch setup or better.
with the problem i have i am using a futaba radio with futaba servos so i dont know what is up with that. ill figure it out eventually .but looks like i will have to get a 4ch or better in the very near future and sell my extra PCM recievers on ebay or somthing like that. thanks
paul

[skipgall]

the semis can be bought on line.
Go to Tamiya.com and they can tellyou were to get accessories.
I made my animal guard my self out of aluminum. that was interasting. I all so made a new bumper cause mine was hit and the suport was bent.
I think Towerhobbies has the acc. also.(on line)
Keep on trucking
skip

[sickdrummer]

got my KNIGHT HAULER and MULTIFUNCTION kit in the mail today from Stellahobbies now just have to put it together. will keep you posted on it and i will send pics as well wish me luck it will take a while to put together
thanks
Paul

[sickdrummer]

Hi. got a question for you guys
i just got the knight hauler kit but i got it off ebay from stellahobbies and it is straight from japan. as far as i can see all is the same but the motor seems to be different. it came with a 540 RS silver can motor. now my other kits from tamiya even recent ones have come with just the regular silver can motor. this one has a sticker that says mabuchi(cant spell) 540 RS motor. and then somthing in japanese. i was just wondering if this is at all a better motor then what we see here in the US kits or is it just the same with a sticker? let me know
thanks
Paul

[weeb_beano]

Tamiya seems to use at least three variants of the stock silver can motor. This is just based on my own observations though.
I've seen so far:
- The Johnson 27T motors
- The marked OR unmarked Mabuchi 27T motors

I have heard there are two different variants of the Mabuchi motors but can't confirm this as i havent taken apart any armatures and counted windings.

For all intensive purposes its the same, silver can setup. Yours probably has the black and gold sticker on it.

[sickdrummer]

yup its a black and gold sticker. i was just wondering if is was more geared for this kit and thats y they stuck that sicker on or whatever buti guess its just the same

[1/8buggyman]

Hey sickdrummer, how much did you pay for shipping?
Also, does anyone know if I could buy the knight hauler and then a king hauler body and throw that on the truck? Would it fit? Thanks for the help.

[sickdrummer]

i paid 100$ for shipping for both items together the Knight Hauler kit and the New Multifunction kit. but if you go to tower hobbies you will see that it would be ALot more if you orderi n the US. I paid alittle more than 100$ less than i would have paid in here . but also if you wanted the mulit function kit you would have to wait a while because it is not avilable here yet. that is another reason i ordered it from STELLAMODELS on ebay. if you have any questions on that let me know!

Now the body. I know for sure that the Chassis of both the king hauler and the KNight hauler are the same but the tanks and electronics mounting is different the battery for the King hauler is under the body and the battery sits under the truck on the knight hauler. i do not th ink they would fit .also the mounting points of the body are different as well. so i dont think it would fit. I have the king hauler and now the KNight hauler the king is a great truck and i think STELLA still has them on ebay so check it out. If you want bearings for this kit and i sugest you get them they you will need 26 5x11 and 4 6x12. same goes for the knight hauler and ford aeromax as well.
hope this helps and sorrry this was so long

Paul

[sickdrummer]

Originally posted by sickdrummer
I know for sure that the Chassis of both the king hauler and the KNight hauler are the same but the tanks and electronics mounting is different the battery for the King hauler is under the body inside with the electronics and the battery sits under the truck on the knight hauler.
had to correct that for ya sorry [/B]

[1/8buggyman]

Sickdrummer, thanks for the help. I've been looking at stellamodels for a while now just because I knew they were cheaper even with the expensive shipping, but then coming from China or whereever what do you expect? I would like to know what you think about the speed control that came with the multi function unit. I've heard some things about it, but just thought i'd ask.

[sickdrummer]

hey 1/8 buggy what did you hear about the Mulitfunction kit? i didnt hear anything about it yet cause i havent found anything on it yet. i do know you can only use the kit motor with it. but i dont know of any horror stories with it. do you? or if you know where i can find info on that in terms of likes dislikes. let me know
thanks
paul

[electrorc]

Can anybody give an estimate of how fast they go in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear, with the stock setup?

Thanks

[sickdrummer]

im not to sure of the speed but any faster than the stock setup and it will def tip over especially in 3rd . first is more of a pulling gear so it tops out real quick and 2nd and 3rd and really just for cruising. but if using 3rd i would recomend a big spot to run it and make your turns wide. a friend of mine has a king hauler like me and he tips his in 3rd(with the stock setup) but it was ok didnt break or scratch anything. but you dont want an expensive model like these tiping over and crashing. i Curently have a king hauler with full ball bearings super rooster esc sound and full light kit and it flys in 3rd for its size and that is pulling the flat bed trailer so without it its even faster. right now i am in the process of putting together the new Knight Hauler kit with full ball bearnings and the new Mulitfunction kit which as a built in esc so i think it will be alittle slower than my king hauler because i dont think the esc pumps out the same amount of current to the motor as the Super Rooster would. but we will see how it performs.
hope this helps you out.
lata
Paul

[electrorc]

Do you have any idea like in MPH? Also, you can't really race these unless there is enough people with them for their own class, right? Also, are they on road only, or can you run them on like gravel?

Thanks

[1/8buggyman]

sickdrummer, the only thing I heard about the multifunction unit was that the esc sucked. I don't really know much about electric stuff, but would it be possible to switch out the esc?

[sickdrummer]

I dont know the MPH. but you can run them on some light graval and on hard packed dirt and low cut grass. as far as racing them i have never seen that before but if ther was a class for that that would be cool. hope this helps . by the way do you have one of these or are you planing to get one. if so let me know and i can help you in any way i can.
thanks
Paul

[sickdrummer]

1/8 buggyman where did you here the ESC sucked? and no you cant swap it out it says it in the instructions. wish i could. what did you hear sucked about it? i havent tested it yet so i dont know.when i do test it i will let you know how it is. i really hope it doesnt suck cause that is alot of money to spend on a POS. but we will see when i test it out.
but let me know where yo ufound that out so i can read some reviews on it,
thanks
Paul

[dabait]

If the integrated ESC really REALLY sucks, you might be able to work around the issue by splitting the battery feed both to the Tamiya ESC and the ESC of your choice. You'd only use the output of your ESC to power the motor.

That might work so long as the integrated unit doesn't need current draw from the motor. I don't know how much efficiency you lose... might be a wash when all is said and done.

[sickdrummer]

well dabit i will find out soon enough i i hope to get it rolling hopfully this week at least and give it a test. if there was a way to bypass it i would becauase i have another superrooster sitting around waiting to be used if there is a way i will find out but i really hope it will be a good one give me long run times like i get in my other tractor.
we will see
thanks
Paul

[1/8buggyman]

I don't remember where I saw stuff about the multifunction unit, but a while back I did some searches on google about this topic and may have run across something somewhere.

[electrorc]

I don't have one right now, I was just thinking of maybe getting one sometime.

[sickdrummer]

hey 1/8 buggyman i sent an email to tamiya and they say i should get the same run time with there esc that i got with mys super rooster maybe 2 min less. they say it is effecient even when pulling the semi trailer so we will see. it is almost finished just have to wait for the paint to come and servo extentions so ill let you know the final report when i get it. and will post pics as well.
lata
Paul

[sickdrummer]

got pretty far on the knight hauler now. almost finished wired up alot of the lighting and went and tested the new sound and vibration unit and WOW this sounds like a had a Real tractor in my living room the new sound system sound exellent. and the lighting is great as well very impresses so far over all. but if you use the bigger speaker box that is in the Knight Hauler kit you def need servo extenders so im wainting on those to come so i can give it a test run. but so far its coming along so i just hope it keeps goin smooth.
more updates to come.
lata
Paul

[dabait]

You are tempting me... Grrrrr! I've been thinking of getting one of there primarily just for display. I'd want a fully-loaded package like what you're building... I just have a hard time swallowing the cost of the multi-function unit.

Do you have a standard sound-effects unit to compare the multi-function unit to? Just curious if they're really improved on that or not.

thanks!

PS: I HATE YOU ;)

[sickdrummer]

hey,
yes i have the standard kit that i had bought a while ago for my knig hauler and that sounds good but this is like goin from a 5 watt stereo to a 100 watt stereo the soounds are crisp and have a bassy rumble to them. so there is a huge difference between the both. i know you think it is expensive but it comes with
ESC,Full Light kit,Vibration unit and sound. you take the other kits add them together with a esc and you have the same price or more. do yourself a favor go on ebay and get it from StellaModels. There shipping is high but when you add there price and shipping your still saving 50 bucks on the Knight a hauler kit, and the multifunction kit add the shipping and its still cheaper than buying in tower hobbies add them both together and you save a total of almost 100 bucks that you would pay if you got it from tower. any more questions just ask..
PS :Im hurt dont hate me ....lol:D

[dabait]

Yep, I purchased my Volvo and SoundFX unit from Stella. I looked around and they had very reasonable prices and their rating was great. There were a couple places that were a bit cheaper, but for whatever reason, they didn't seem as solid as Stella.

Welp... you should probably get some sort of commission, because I think you've just convinced me.

thanks!?

PS: I STILL HATE YOU ;)

[sickdrummer]

hey which sound FX unit did you get the multi function kit because that was the one that sound awsome. the other one in the grayish box doesnt sound as good and doesnt come with the esc lights vibration and so on.
but anyway. im glad you got it your goin to have alot of fun driving it trust me. and you will drive it cause they are alot of fun to watch but i garentee it will take you while to put together there are alot of parts in these suckers. but you will have fun buliding it. have fun and let me know how you make out or if you need any help.talk to you later
Paul

[dabait]

I have a Globeliner and Pole-Trailer which I purchased through tower. I enjoyed building it so much, that I purchased the Volvo and the basic SoundFX unit from Stella. I've got the SoundFX unit in the Globeliner, and that's the only truck I run. The Volvo is built, but just sitting on a shelf... no radio installed.

Here are some pictures:
Front view, close-up (http://www.dabait.com/RC-Cars/Globeliner/MiscPics/Globeliner-done-6.jpg)

Rear view (http://www.dabait.com/RC-Cars/Globeliner/MiscPics/Globeliner-done-5.jpg)


Construction Article (http://www.dabait.com/RC-Cars/Globeliner/)

[sickdrummer]

you did a great job on that model. i will post pics of the knight hauler and my king hauler with my flatbed trailer wheni get a chance. what i want next is the Box truck and the Semi trailer box trailer and that is it i think for the trucks but i really enjoy driving them they are alot of fun and have long run times .i was accually thinking of selling my tourning car stuff and just getting all tractors. and just keep my mini cooper and my tmaxx. well we will see. but ill keep you posted on the kit waiting on the paint and servo extenders but i will take pics hopfully this week.until then
lata
Paul

[maX energ]

you guys think that tamiya will release some sort of the vibration unit for the guys that dont have the multi-function kit...cause i would love the vibration but i really dont wanna spend that much just for the full kit considering that i already have the light and sound kit installed in my king hauler.

[sickdrummer]

that i dont think they will come out with.
but i bet if you sold your Lights, sound and esc you would have the money to buy the kit, because it has also a built in ESC so u would be set if you did that but i dont think they will add that on.
but we will see

[maX energ]

na, it was a job and a half to set it all up...btw, the vibration unit looks like nothing but a 380 or 240 sized motor with a counter weight..? those motors are like 7 to 10 bucks, i think ill try and just make one myself some how...

where does the vibration unit get plugged in?...like does it vary speed with the motor or like the sound unit it self..??

[sickdrummer]

yes it is in sync with the sound and with motion it gets pluged right into the mulitfunction unit and that syncs it all up.

[maX energ]

darn, i guess i cant cheat and just use the motor...blah, im probly just maybe...gonna get a globe liner, and when i do ill get the multi function kit.

so hows the kinight hauler?

[sickdrummer]

the knight hauler is cool. almost finished just got the parts i needed to finish it today the paint and servo extensions and then after that it will be out for a test run but so far so good.i should paint it up next week if the weather is nice and hopfully have pics by then.
thanks
Paul

[maX energ]

what do you mean by servo extensions?? and you might live around jersey and new york area right? cause the weather here is garbage...blah...rain rain rain....and plus now i have school..NOOOO!!!!!!:mad:

[maX energ]

hahahhaha i just noticed something.....
ok for you king hauler owners...look at the directions booklet, on the picture of a king hauler...look at the fog lights on the front bumper...THE LEFT LENSE IS MISSING!!!!!! :eek: :eek: :eek: :D :cool:

[sickdrummer]

yeah i am from staten island NY which is very close to the outerbridge. and the weather here sucks ass so will have to paint next week.
Yeah servo extentions since the speaker box is so big in the knight hauler kit you have to get servo extensions for the steering servo and the shifting servo. got them yestrday so i can do that and give it a runnin test in the apartment but cant run outside cause this weather SUCKS ASS. well i just wait till next week.
and ill check my king hauler booklet and see if that is true, i know on my king hauler they are both missing now they must have fallen off. that sucks i will have to try to get another set. oh well ill talk to you later
Paul

[maX energ]

when i put my all my light in i put a small dab of krazy glue on the top of each lense to prevent them from falling out, and i drive this truck ALOT and my street isnt really smooth..so she vibrates a little on my street, so i drive to the new asphlat at the school parking lot about 200 feet from my house :D ..
??whats the point of the motorized support legs if you have to plug in the trailer lights anyway?...

well since i have school the bad weather isnt so bad, cause i cant drive anyways..

ha my dad wants to get a globe liner...( ;) )
im gonna get the multi-function kit once it comes out on tower..
now the multi-function kit has a 5th wheel..why?..hah

[sickdrummer]

yeah i guled mine in too but i guess not good enough,,but ill find new ones somwhere i guess.i drive mine alot too more than any RC i own i was accually thinking of selling my touring car and just keep my tmaxx and my mini and use the money from the touring car to get another mulit function kit to go with my king hauler. but i have to see how the esc is first i am goin to change some wiring to make it thicker for less resistance. but so far its awsome and the sound is really great.

[dabait]

If you look closely at the pic of my Globeliner, the right foglight lens is missing. I didn't notice it when I took the pictures... only after I transfered them to my computer.

I looked all over for it, but no luck. I think it popped out when I ran off the walkway and into the grass... gone for good in that case. I guess I need to order a Parts Tree (K) from Tamiya. I will definitely glue them in.

There is a special glue used for mounting RC airplane canopies that would work great. It looks a lot like normal white-glue... milky and thick, but it dries crystal clear and stays a little rubbery. I think it's also water-based so it wont mess up the plastic if you get too much on.

[maX energ]

sounds good to me!

now i read somewhere that the wedico trailers WILL fit on the tamiya trucks ...BUT with very slight modifiction...
why??
i was looking at a 300 ton 54 wheel, 14 axle, hand made, all welded steel low boy trailer....
its 8 FEET LONG...YES 8 FEET...its INSANE!!!...ill get the link later!
:cool:

[maX energ]

http://www.modeltrucks.net/products.htm


check out that stuff...nice eh', i like that peterbilt logging truck...

[sickdrummer]

that trailer is awsome!
i dont know if you have seen the lastest version of RC car action but they have a wedico truck in there it was a tow truck and it costs like 4,000$ looks great but i think ill stick to tamiya at lest that is kinda in a price range. Wow 4g's. but it does look great. The next one i would get would be the Ford Aeromax or the Box truck. those are they only other 2 that i like.

i took those pics now i just have to up load them of my King hauler and half finished Knight Hauler.
talk to ya soon
Paul

[1/8buggyman]

Does anyone on this board have any plans for a flatbed trailer or anything. My school has a CNC machine and I just wanted to put it to use. If not, I would like to know where I can get a flatbed trailer besides on Tower. I can't find anyone who sells one that is less than $200.

Also, who sells a nice forklift thats not too much money? I remember seeing one at somepoint that was about $100, but I can't find it anymore. I know Robbe makes one, but it's about $500.

[sickdrummer]

you can always try ebay. or wait up for a used one i guess to be posted on the board. i really want the box semi trailer hopfully for christmas. iaccualy have the flatbed trailer andit is pretty cool i usually strap my friends camera to it and record the truck goin all over the place. i will have to upload one of the vids one day.
lata
Paul

[wedicotrucker]

hi all I have been into r/c cars for the last 20 years and have just gotten in to r/c trucking abought a 4 months ago, I have a wedico truck, with a van trailer. still working on the mods.
once I get this rig going I plan on getting the tamiya knigh hauler. If your looking for some trick tamiya hop ups theres a web site worth a look. go to www.gardentrucking.com they have mostly wedico stuff, but have tamiya hop ups as weel.

[sickdrummer]

cool thanks man! the knight hauler is a nice kit in the home strech in finishing it just have to paint it up this week and pretty much done after that.

Keep this post rolling .

lata
Paul

[dabait]

Well, I am in the process of negotiating the purchase of a package deal from a certain supplier... can't say until it's nailed. Fingers crossed...

[maX energ]

since i have school and i like to hang out and bmx...i drive my truck in the dark hah...all lights at the new school parking lot..its got lights so it isnt like pitch black...but its fun.....

(i want a dump trailer...err)

BTW....my drive shaft cups...the tranny one...is very worn..not like super worn...but there getting there...can i buy new ones or even up grade?...it looks like any old drive shaft cup?

soon i have to rebuild my tranny...(fun ha)

[sickdrummer]

started painting my knight hauler today. so far so good ill givei it one more coat tomorrow and then im goin to clear coat it hope it comes out good. looks mean but it will look better once the stickers are on it.

I think any ball cup will work. i have extras with my kit. you should too.

Rebulid the tranny damn that sucks it is a pain in the ass to get in and out and put
together so far so good with mine (king hauler 2yrs old and drive it all the time) the knight haulers tranny should hold out for a while. seems the like the gear ratio is different low gear seems real low but on my king hauler seems alittle bit faster. i have to check the specs but then again it could be the ESC.
the Esc in the multifunction unit works good so far with all lights on and a half charged 1700mah batt lasted about 40min with the sould cranked and all. surprised and its smooth. cause i gave it a test run the other night and man with the volume cranked it sounded like a real truck and really good bass coming out of that thing sould like a good sound system. so far i am pretty pleased.
will keep you posted
Paul

[dabait]

At what point in construction is the multi-function unit (MFU) required? I ended up ordering my truck from Tower since their price ended up being about the same after factoring in shipping and discounts. Plus, they're shipping out of Reno so it's one-day shipping.

They don't have the MFU in stock yet, but an overseas seller does... that'll be another 10 days for shipping, probably.

So, can I build up the chassis, or should I wait until I have everything?

[Don1Lcm]

HI Iam new guy in town, but not to r/c. Where over sea can you get MFU I check the guys in Hong Kong??
Don

[sickdrummer]

the multi function unit come into play around the end you will see. but i sugest you put the lights in as you put together the fixtures so you dont have to take it all apart later on.but like i said pretty much last is the mfc.
And Make sure you have Servo extentions for the stering and shifting. because the mfc kit comes with a small speaker box and the KNIGHT HAULER kit come with a Huge Speaker box(use the big one trust me sounds like a stereo system.
today i just finished putting on the clear coat on my knight hauler
so tonight if i get a chance i will mount it on the chassis and take pics and post them here than when i get a chance i will put on the stickers and post pics of that. and my king hauler as well.
Well let me know how you make out and if you need any help or advice with the knight hauler. When you paint it def clear coat it . i painted my black with a few layers of clear so far it looks great. i wonder if you can wax them with car wax if they are clear coated? well ill keep you posted and keep me posted

Don1Lcm yes you can get it in Hong Kong i got mine off ebay from Stella Models good price and fast shipping check on ebay if they stil have them. when i got mine it was the only one on at the time so there may be more now. and there was also a kit where it came with the knight hauler ,mulitfunction kit and the radio and a batt. and that was about 700 not bad for the whole set.
let me know how you make out maybe i can help you locate one
lata
Paul

[dabait]

Woohoo! Fedex should be delivering the truck today and the MFU should be here next week! Express shipping (3-4 days) for smaller items from Hong Kong isn't much more than standard!

[sickdrummer]

that is awsome Dabit.
last night i put the body together after i painted it and it looks awsome even with no stickers. with the clear coat it shines like glass. looks great. this week i will def take pics of it. and have them posted
talk to you guys soon and Dabit keep me updated
lata
Paul

[dabait]

I may have to find a friend to paint my truck... last couple times I painted with enamels, I had a severe allergic reaction. Broke out in hives and small blisters in some areas... eyes were almost swollen shut... thank goodness for Benedryl.

Lacquers (like for lexan R/C shells) and acrylics (water-based) don't bother me, and the red enamel I used on the Volvo was no problem. But either the silver enamel or gloss-cote I used on the Globeliner really did a number on me.

Maybe I can hook up with an advanced modeller in the area.

[sickdrummer]

hi guys here are some pics of my truck. some came out good some didnt i just in a rush to show you so here is the link:
http://members17.clubphoto.com/paul736221/1606372/guest.phtml

let me know what you think
lata
Paul

[Don1Lcm]

Great pictures, what channel is R2D2 on?

Don

[Don1Lcm]

This is for Dabait, where did you order your MFU unit from?

[sickdrummer]

my R2D2 is accually not on any channel i got for christmas and it operates on voice comand its pretty cool.

I got my MFU from Stella Models on ebay. for a great price.

thanks for the compliment

[dabait]

Don1Lcm, I contacted StellaModels through their e*bay auctions. I didn't see the MFCU listed in any auctions, so I asked when they expected to have more. They replied that they had one, but it hadn't been listed yet... said I could buy direct (outside of e*bay) so I did.

SickDrummer, that looks really great. The paintjob looks super-glossy... all those cab lights reflecting off it and stuff. You might want to re-route some of those wires in the cab so you don't see them through the windsheild... or maybe just put some black tape over them.

I'm pretty anxious now... my chassis is built, up to the point of mounting the deck and king-plate. I'm not sure, but I'd imagine I'll be in for some minor disassembly to route the wiring once I get my MFC... and doesn't the control panel go in one of the toolboxes?

[sickdrummer]

yeah i know i have to re route thouse wires i didnt look while i was putting it together then after i srewed it together i was like damn wires. so i will have to fix that up. looks real bad like that but ill get around to it soon. cant wait for its first real run,
will also keep you guys posted on the run time with the MFU.

Also dabit i replaced the thin wire it came with ,with 12gauge so hopfully that cuts some of that resistance. you will see it when you get it they made the wires real thin for the motor and for the batt. replace them and that should help out alittle in run time well at least i hope so .
talk to you guys soon and thanks for the compliments on the body dabit.
paul

[maX energ]

oh man, i really like the black...i was thinking of buying another king hauler body and cutting the sleeper off...then i was thinking of making it a dump body..or like a panel sided body

ive seen it done too..some guy cut the sleeper of his king hauler...made it single axle, change the lights and all the decortive stuff on the cab and made an awsome WWII german infantry carrier...it had a cloth top with chained tires...painted in down to scale german camo...the truck was soooo scary it was that real...me and my dad were blown away by this truck...

how hard you think its gonna be if i get a new body then change it over with my current one?...ill have to do all the lights and stuff....ugh..i want to paint it black and have like little to no stickers and make it look mean as h e l l..

or maybe ill convince my dad to getting a knight hauler...ha? will the mfu fit inside the globe liner anyways!? that speaker box looks pretty massive...

[sickdrummer]

ok MAX
the multi function unit will fit in all tamiyas kits. because the instructions have all of the kits in it and how to put them in.

Next you can get a king hauler body from Tower Hobbies. but if you cut off the sleeper that is where the batt sits and some of the electronics so it maybe alot of relocating suff and a really tight squeeze but not im possible.

thanks for the compliments on my truck. You should get a knight hauler you will really like it i think it looks sleek and mean all at the same time.
let me know how you make out or what you come up with
talk to you later
Paul

[dabait]

Just noticed, you can paint the Knight Hauler either a dark color or a light one... it has a double set of decals to contrast off of either. It has two sets of stripes, and some of the lettering comes in both black and white (or shadowed)... pretty cool.

Now I'm not sure what color I want to paint :p

[maX energ]

ok i made up my mind, and it sounds good..
im gonna get a Knight Hauler and paint it white!...or maybe a 2 color scheme..or that navy/orange scheme on the ROADWAY trucks that are ALWAYS going up and down the road in front of my grandparents house...i dunno im open to seggestions ;)

[CarterTG]

Just figured this thread would be appropriate to post a shot I snapped at the Tamiya booth during the Hobby Show...

[Don1Lcm]

Hey Sickdrummer, where on the Aeromax tractor would you put the control panel for the M F U ?

DON

PS MY KNIGHT HAULER arrive Wed. to the hobby store.

[sickdrummer]

hey Don i dont know i will have to look at the book later on when i go home then i will let you know. if you ordered the knight hauler with the MFU in the instructions it will tell you where to put it for all the kits. if not i will let you know later on tonight when i get home
thanks
Paul

Ps have fun with the knight hauler it is a really awsome looking truck when you are finished with it.
lata

[Don1Lcm]

They didn't have stock of the M F U unit. The guy who I sold (I KICK MYSELF NOW FOR SELLING IT) the Aeromax too Wanted know. He would klike to up date his tractor.

[maX energ]

im thinking of getting a wedico tractor...?? just the conventional one....and work from there..or just buy the chassis and cab...i dunno!..hha too many choices...

[wedicotrucker]

I have a wedico truck, it's a real attention grabber, even from the tamiya truckers. its more expensive right off the bat, but theres far more hop ups for the wedico trucks over what little tamiya has to offer.

[dabait]

If you were to place a Tamiya next to a Wedico, how apparent is the scale difference? I thought I saw that the W trucks were 1/16th.

Also... had a great day today... my MFC unit arrived and I won an E*Bay auction for a box trailer. Looks like a hobbyshop (D&J) in Campbell CA was clearing out some old inventory. I was the only bidder, and I got it for $235 (+ CA sales tax). I probably could've done a bit better, but I like to give bricks-n-mortor stores business as well. Plus, it's a shop I used to go to all the time when I lived in the area.

This is going to be for the Knight Hauler... and I'll paint it to match. I really like the looks of the black... leaning that direction right now. Sickdrummer... is your's black or very dark blue?

[dabait]

Holy Schmoley! There sure are lots of wires! It took me a while, but I finally got things sorted out... not too hard after all.

I've got the wires nicely routed from the tail-end, but the fronts (bumper, headlights, roof-lights) are still a mess since the bodyshell isn't ready yet.

I tested it in mode one (no controls), and the lights all seem to do the right thing... can't fully test things like brakes and turn indicators, but the headlights / fog-lights / rooflights and hazards all looked great.

Remember:
Gre = Green
Gra = Gray
Bra = Brown

I had Green/Gray confused (I usually spell it "grey")... and figured out that Bra=Brown through elimination. :p

[sickdrummer]

hey dabit,
the paint i used was a the Tamiya Semi-Gloss black(3cans) and 2 cans worth of tamiya clear coat.

[Don1Lcm]

Hey Paul, you and Dabait are having all the fun. My Knight Hauler arrived Wed. I Won't do anything until I get (M F U). I will have to wait. (SH_T)

DON

[dabait]

I dunno... I think you could build it up as far as a rolling chassis and not have to undo much (if anything).

I had mine built to the point I was just waiting to paint the shell... even the details such as the mirrors were built, just not attached. the front bumper and tail-lights were attached, but not the mud-flap things. The only disassembly I had to do for MFC installation was to remove the front bumper (2 bolts), the main tray (6 bolts), and king-pin and level plates (6 bolts) ... maybe 5 minutes time.

Sickdrummer, did you use the heavy shaker weight or the light one? And, thanks for the paint info!

[Don1Lcm]

Hi Dabait , where would you locate the control unit (MFU) on a Aeromax Tractor I have buddy who has One. And thanks I might start building I am home for the next week.

Don

[dabait]

The MFU kit came with placement instructions for all truck kits AND a whole lot of parts for the various installations. There are extra tool-boxes for housing the control box, some brackets, king-plate updates and more. I was surprised.

I believe the Aeromax will be pretty much the same as the Knight Hauler... similar cab configuration. Did the Aeromax come with a speaker enclosure? If not, then you'll end up using the smaller one that came in the kit (if at all). Anyway, in the Knight Hauler, the speaker-box is HUGE. It sits directly behind the transmission, and the MFU is attached to the back of it. The vibration unit is also bolted directly to the speaker box.

If the Aeromax's cab isn't quite a long, you might have to mount the MFU and vibration unit somewhere else, but even on the Knight Hauler, there's about 3/8" or so between the back of all the gear and the rear cab wall. I'll try to snap some photos tonight... I'll look at the manual as well and let you know what I find (I'm at work right now).

[Don1Lcm]

There aren't any speaker enclosure, although the two trucks are the same config. Where would you put the control panel? On Knight Hauler it fit on lift side, by the fuel tanks. It sound like a challenge. Great fun send some pictures. I have started on the chassis, and going to paint the body. The majority of the supplier will have the (MFU) in stock by the end of the month. We have a back order with our distriutor for MFU units and one tractor trailer in the store.

[wedicotrucker]

Dabit, wedico sais its 1/16 scale but its realy 1/14.5. The standered wedico rig is 21.65 inches long. but standing next to the king hauler the wedico has a more scale apperance. Wedico's trucks are also more consistant to scale than tamiya. the only bummer is it come stock with a single speed tranny :( and only one live rear axel. but then it also comes stock with all lighting and comes with an esc. The esc, its built into the gas tank housing.

[dabait]

Sorry... didn't get around to shooting pictures tonight... but, I'm looking at the manual right now.


For the Aeromax, the MFU mounts flat on the floor-pan directly behind the transmission.
The speaker gets mounted in a small enclosure (comes with the MFU) and the speaker-box gets mounted on top of the MFU aiming upward.
The vibration unit gets mounted to the speaker-box along the left side... ends up being in the back-left corner of the cab.
The control panel gets fitted inside a special fuel tank that will mount on the left side of the truck. The fuel tank pieces are provided and will replace the one that comes with the truck. The control-panel faces downward.


Here's a scan from the manual... I've cleaned it up a bit...
Aeromax instructions from manual (http://www.dabait.com/RC-Cars/aeromax-mfu.gif)

[Don1Lcm]

Thanks Dabait, I made a print out and I'll give it to my buddy. Would you believe this, he doesn.t have a computer. I think this information well go a long on convincing him to get one. The winds from hurricane Isabel have eased a bit and it just raining now, here in the Bronx. See you later and thanks again.


Don

[maX energ]

i wanna get a wedico truck..but i would need the 3 speed, dual 12v motor's, 2 live axle's and a sweet trailer (..lowboy or dump)...i dunno..i really cant dish the money...(and also..about the scale appereance of the wedico..if seen some STELLAR wedico trucks but the stock ones...aren't the best looking..the wheels look kinda cruddy..but ive never seen one in person so i really dont know, can some one take a pic of a tamiya and wedico side by side and post some good pics of wedico trucks...

gardentrucking.com and the husky builders site is the only places i know that carry these trucks the most..

[wedicotrucker]

the guy that owns persision model distibuters also has a tamiya king hauler, you might be able to contact him and see if he can send you some pics of the weico and the king hauler. I do agree that the stock rims look like crap but they do make aluminum rims that bolt to gether much like the real truck wheels. and the stock chasis is made from a single peace of stock aluminum. and the stock fith wheel does not look all that great, but if you intend on using the truck to hual a trailer theres really no need to have all the cool stuf.
When I was looking at getting into the big rigs, my first thought was to go with tamiya, but after looking into the plus and minus's of the two trucks wedico won out. Once you get the truck the rest of the odds and ends are not to badly priced. but I still have to admitt once I get my wedico put together I want to get the tamiya knight hauler. and the new sound unit as well.

[dabait]

Looking at GardenTrucking, at first glance the prices for the Wedico rigs seems pretty high... even factoring that they include an ESC and light-kit. They list about $1100 for the Peterbilt... seems like a Tamiya King-Hauler + ESC + light-kit would be about $600.

Wedico trailer prices look OK... but the trucks... I dunno.

The trucks, in general, look great. In stock form, there appears to be a bit too much gap between the fenders and tires, but browsing galleries (like http://www.hansetrucker.de/images/galerie/index.htm), it appears that some people have corrected it.

Compare GAPPY (http://www.hansetrucker.de/images/galerie/images/a_c_klein.jpg) to Non-GAPPY (http://www.hansetrucker.de/images/galerie/images/o_l_klein.jpg)

[maX energ]

thats because i think the new aluminum wheels and tires are a little bigger...the stock wheels and tires look super small...

tamiya tractor trucks - kinda like the mustang, has the power to be decent in stock form and has a few upgrades

wedico tractor trucks - kinda like the civic...not so good at first but has hundreds of hop ups to make it alot better

see my point? lol its kinda ...um..nevermind..ha

[maX energ]

i got some nice pictures!...it may be a few posts but i think there worth it! :cool: (in this pic..you can mod the sleeper!!

[maX energ]

more

[maX energ]

look at the mods to this aeromax!!....insane..the doors open, and it has a very original colour

[maX energ]

ok last one for now..

[Don1Lcm]

this his my buddy first r/c righttp://picture0379

[maX energ]

that picture wont show??...
anyways..

European trailers-
usually have 3 axles or more with a single WIDE tire

American trailers-
usually have 1 or 2 axles with double wheels.

just thought that i would add that! ..ha

[maX energ]

oh yea, btw...i just found out last night that a toy store (learning express) that is less then a bike ride away..carries the Bruder toy trucks..(if you dont know these trucks and tractors and unimogs, and all different stuff) are the same 1/14 scale of the tamiya rigs...so..im going to buy the set with the uni-mog and the 3 axle lowboy that has a bull dozer...im gonna take it apart, paint it, make it look more realistic and use the trailer and lowboy for my king hauler...then im gonna use the Uni-mog hard body for my Tamiya Xb cross country pajero. (VERY FUN TRUCK..)

http://www.brudertoysamerica.com/index.html check the top pro series stuff out*

[Don1Lcm]

Tower hobbies has Multi-Function Unit (Part no.LXDYB7) in stock

[dabait]

I got my Tamiya Van Trailer yesterday and built it right away... a couple things I ran into during construction:

1) make darned sure the floor-pan is oriented properly... I got mine built pretty far before I realized it was left-right backwards. The two holes for the support-leg release mechanism were not where they should've been. Rather than disassemble and reassemble it properly, I just drilled two new holes.

2) the axle / spring assemblies seemed to bind against the support pieces when bolted in place. It's like it needed shims to provide clearance between the supports and the spring clamps. If I tighten it up, it binds and doesn't move freely... if I leave it loose, it's a bit sloppy... not sure how to solve this.

3) when assembling the rear doors, make sure the raised-bumps face OUTWARD. I got them all assembled before I realized what those bumps were for. It certainly wasn't clear in the instructions.

4) when you are anxious to take it for a test drive ... it really sucks when you realize your transmitter batteries are dead ... hehe.

Anyway... no decals on it. I plan on painting the panels gloss black to match the tractor. I'll do custom decals using my friend's F1 Reno Air Racing logos.

BTW, that van is HEAVY.

[maX energ]

:mad: my dad broke one of those plastic chain post things for my flatbed trailer...but :rolleyes: i still can order it, today i called my LHS cause i know he has ties with tamiya and he said "no problem! :D i break them too.." :cool: so its ok i guess..in the mean time i took up all the wooden boards and im gonna make an atempt to make a dump body from wood on my trailer chassis...i just thought that i would try..

btw...i went to this store in my neighborring town and bought the bruder 1/14 fork lift...its not super detailed ...but hey..it was onlt 20 bucks...and plus, there gonna try and order me the bruder unimog and 3 axle lowboy with dolly set...

[1/8buggyman]

Hey sickdrummer or dabait, with the multifunction unit, does the larger speaker box fit in the aeromax?

[maX energ]

yup it does, it fits in all of the truck, it comes with the MFU

[maX energ]

i just got that 2004 towerhobbies catalog in the mail today and it has the multifunction kit in it..

[maX energ]

i just found some crazy pictures on the tamiya japan website..

[kruzn]

I just purchased the Knight Hauler and MFU. On the cover of the instructions for the MFU it says that PCM receivers cannot be used. I was planning to use the Futaba 9CAP, but it comes with a PCM receiver. Has anyone else used PCM with the MFU? Any problems?

I am planning a full custom truck with many operating features, so I need the extra channels.

TIA!
Kruzn

[dabait]

That's surprising... the signal-type sent to the servo is the same whether it's PCM or not... it's only the radio signal that's different (as far as I know). The servos are totally interchangable between the two types, and the MFU just reads the signals on the servo leads, so I don't see what the issue would be.

However, I could understand how digital servos would cause problems. I wonder if there was an issue in translation or an engineering/documentation slip-up.

But if it is an issue for some reason, can't you find a similar radio without PCM?

[1/8buggyman]

You should just be able to buy a different receiver and then switch the radio from PCM to PPM. Atleast that's the way that my Futaba works.

[dabait]

Finally getting to the point of powering up my Knight Hauler / MFU... wow! I don't have the steering / shift servos connected yet because they are too far away from the RX. I'm dumb... I know someone here mentioned they were needed.

However, I was able to play around with almost all the MFU features. The vibration unit is very cool... puts a grin on my face. The trailer detector lets the speed controller know that there is a load, so more power is directed to the motor. All the sound FX are awesome... a lot LOT better than the standard Sound Effects unit.

I'm currently using a 2-stick radio (lots of channels)... the extra channel would be if I had the motorized leg set. I might switch it over to use my 3-channel pistol-grip radio, but I'm not sure... the Globeliner uses that radio, and I'd like to be able to run both at the same time.

[maX energ]

ahh stop talking about the MFU! I WANT ONE SOO BAD!! ..ha

.does it really have more power with the trailer attached!?...whoa thats pretty trick..
i might get the mercedes 1850L (the one with the box) then get the pintle hook set from gardentrucking.com and the dolly and run my trailer like that...i dunno im still kicking it around..
oh btw, what radios do you guys use?..im running a
Futaba skysport 75mhz FM 4 channle 2 stick, it has a 7 channel dual conversion receiver..i forgot how much i paid...
well one question...i have an open channel..but how would you use different things like lights or um..to drop a 3rf rear axle down..for the lights would you just plug into the receiver a harness with the positive and negitive wire for the lights into the recevier and when you move the stick in that postition they turn on??...or is it something like that???

[Don1Lcm]

hey max energ
try tower hobbies for the M F U

[maX energ]

i did, they have them but limited quanties so i guess there going left and right..
im gonna probly do the 1850L box truck, hitch and dolly idea..sounds goo to me but i may have to get 4 tamiya wheels because the wheels might be a bit small...i dunno, i gotta see whats up:cool:

[maX energ]

oh yea...

[dabait]

That Volvo is quite neat... not something you'd see here in the US, but really cool anyway. I love that MB... just beautiful!

For radios, my Globeliner is using a Futaba 3PDF... the third channel works great for the transmission because you can program it for 3 or 4 stops. You just toggle a button up or down to move from one stop to the next. I'm real happy with it.

Right now, the Knight Hauler is using an old Airtronics Vision (2-stick, 8 channel) with a 75MHz FM module. The RX is only 4-channel, and I'm only using 3 of them right now.

I really don't like stick radios for driving cars... seems unnatural to me and I usually end up having trouble with throttle coordination. I just got the servo extenders for the Knight Hauler and took it for a test drive... I really need a pistol-grip for it... bashed into things a few times... no damage though.

The MFU does indeed seem to adjust throttle depending on whether you have the trailer attached or not. Makes it drive more consistently whether hooked up or not... nice touch.

[maX energ]

thanks for the info :D this thread has been kicked into 3rd gear! :cool: .ha... keep on trucking!

[maX energ]

hey dabait, do you have any pics of your volvo and van trailer?

[maX energ]

now thats a color!..ha

[dabait]

Originally posted by maX energ
hey dabait, do you have any pics of your volvo and van trailer?

http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/trio-3.jpg

There's a bunch more ... here (http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/)

No fancy web-page or thumbnails... just start clicking.

The Volvo isn't done... not even running. I still need to add the final details around the windshield, door-handles and stuff.

Darn lens missing from the Globeliner fog-light... I've got to call Tamiya to order a replacement.

BTW, I used a product by Pacer called, "Formula 560" ("The World's Best Canopy Glue") to secure the dome windows on the Knight Hauler. The stuff is great for this type of application. It looks like white-glue but dries perfectly clear. If you get any extra on the window, it can be removed with your fingernail. It stays a bit rubbery, so it works well in this application.

Whenever I get the new fog-light lens, I'll use a small bead of this stuff to make sure it stays put.

[dabait]

A few extra comments:

- There are no decals on the van because I plan to paint it black. I will paint the rails and panels separately... leave the plastic corner pieces natural since paint probably wouldn't stick.

- No decals on the Knight Hauler yet because I still need to polish the paint... parts came out with a bit of an egg-shell finish.

- When I used the "Formula 560" on the windows, I first just snapped the windows in place, then ran a bead ON THE INSIDE along the edge. The goop wicked under the flange to form a good bond. If you're worried about any lenses popping out, you can use a tooth-pick to apply it around the edge.

[maX energ]

i like that knight hauler in black!!...

about the mercedes im gonna get..im gonna paint it black and leave the van silver or even paint it like a german flag..it is a mercedes after all..ha..
problem is...are the wheels on the dolly going to be too small...can anyone familure with wedico explain? PLEASE!!..

[wedicotrucker]

the wedico tires are 3 and 7/8ths of an inch diamitor and 3/4 inches widethe inside of the tire is 1 and 3/4ths inches in diamitor. hope this helps, btw what size is the tamiya rims and tires?

[wedicotrucker]

dabit, that is one sweet looking paint job on that knight hauler!
I gotta get me one :)

[1/8buggyman]

Hey max, that's a cool trailer, like a combination of a flatbed and a box. Where'd you get that, or how'd you make it, or where'd you see it?

[maX energ]

i wish that trailer was mine :rolleyes: i found the pic on tamiya.com but like way into the site...(lots of links) and plus it was all in japanese lol..thats where most of these pics are from.....

the tamiya tires and wheels together are the same width and 3 and 1/8ths of an inch diameter..
did you mean 2 and 7/8 of an inch? cause 3 and 7/8th's is huge!

[dabait]

I did some more work on the Volvo... almost done now! Only bits remaining are the grab-holds and wipers below the windshield... and painting the door-handles silver.

I chose to trim the side windows with chrome rather than black... the black wasn't going to show up well against the dark-dark tinted windows. While the chrome may not be the most realistic choice, I think it adds a nice bling:

http://www.dabait.com/Globeliner/MiscPics/globetrotter-3.jpg

There are a couple other new pictures in directory.

Thanks for the compliment on the paint job... it looks better in the photos than it does up close. I'm just all thumbs when it comes to finish-work. The choice of black was inspired by the photos posted by someone else a ways back... great idea!

Now... the Ford Aeromax has caught my eye... it is also real sharp looking. Strange, but Tower lists the Aeromax for quite a bit more than the Knight Hauler... maybe Ford charges steep licensing fees?

max... I think a German-flag color scheme would look awesome with a black rig... go for it!

[maX energ]

thanks! i think im gonna do the german flag idea!

[kruzn]

Thanks for the responses. I started building the truck this weekend and bench-tested the MFU using a 4 channel radio. I was going to try a 6 channel heli radio that I have, but it only has one "extra" channel switch on the TX as ch5 is automatic rotor pitch mixing.

I'll try the 9 channel PCM later this week and see what happens. If it does not work, then I'll have to reconsider my options. The Futaba 9CAP is on 75mHz, but only comes with PCM RX. The Futaba 9C radio is available with an FM RX, but only on air frequencys (72mHz).

Also, has anyone experimented with the two different vibration weights? The instructions call for the smaller (lighter) one in the "American" trucks and the larger one in the Euro trucks. Seems like the larger, heavier weight would create a little more realistic "shake."

And lastly...has anyone done a working (but non-driven) tag axle?

Kruzn

[maX energ]

i wish i could do a tag axle....but i think it would be pretty hard..because the axle for the tag axle would hit the drive shaft when it comes down?..(im not 100% sure)
about the MFU and PCM radios : i really dont know, but i guess you could call tamiya and ask them why it wouldn't work or if theres any way to fix the problem

so with american trucks your suppose to use the smaller weight and euro trucks use the big one??.in the video of the knight hauler it seems to shake pretty good, and if thats just the small weight i wanna see the big one!!

[dabait]

Cruzn,

I was confused about the weights too. It appears that you use the LIGHTER weight when the vibration unit it mounted high, and the HEAVIER weight when it is mounted low. Being mounted higher, you don't need as much mass shaking to affect the whole truck... more leverage.

dave

[maX energ]

no matter what im gonna use the big weight lol...soon ill have some pics of my very own truck! :cool:

[dabait]

Originally posted by maX energ
no matter what im gonna use the big weight lol...soon ill have some pics of my very own truck! :cool:

As it is, sometimes the vibration unit makes the panels of the trailer-van rattle. And you'll want to be darned sure to use the thread-lock on metal-to-metal fasteners, otherwise you'll be driving along with parts falling off :D

[maX energ]

it will rattle the truck and the trailer!??! WITH THE SMALL WEIGHT?!!? whoa!! hah

[wedicotrucker]

yes it is 2 and 7/8ths

[dabait]

Originally posted by wedicotrucker
yes it is 2 and 7/8ths

Ok ... you know, I think there are pills that can help you. I get email messages about them all the time. ;)

[maX energ]

HAHA :D :D :D i get those emails too...no matter how hard..hahhaha you try to get rid of them...they keep coming back..:confused:

[wedicotrucker]

I meant yes the tires are 2 and 7/8ths :)

[maX energ]

:D just a bit of humor...

hey i just beat Hard Truck 2..the greatest game ever!...:cool:
:D :cool: thanks alot wedico trucker, you saved my alot of time..and you confirmed that it will work and its worth a shot!..one more question...with the tamiya trailers work with the wedico 5th wheel??....wait no..doesnt the MFU come with a 5th wheel...maybe ill run that so ill still get the sound of the trailer attaching...:confused: :cool: CANT WAIT;)

[wedicotrucker]

I know you where j/k any who, I dont have a tamiya truck (yet) so I cant say what all it would take, but I have seen wedico trailers in use with tamiya's king hauler. I think all that would be needed is to use the tamiya's trailer hitch. but not 100%

[maX energ]

well if the dolly wont accept my tamiya trailer, it will still open me up for ALOT more trailer options from wedico :cool:

[maX energ]

dabait...i really like that volvo in that red!...the problem with these trucks is when you paint it..you better make sure you like that colour...cause getting new bodies and re-doing bodies is sure a pain in the ...yea :eek:

[dabait]

Thanks... I tend to not follow instructions and paint it whatever color I want. Since that last photo was taken, I added the grab-holds and wipers, and I used a fine-point Sharpie to outline the door panel-lines above the grill. I still need to paint the door handles, then I'll take final pictures.

The fine-point Sharpie trick really helps with brighter colors; it helps highlight engraved lines like those around the doors. They otherwise tend to disappear. It only takes a few minutes to do, and it's not all that hard since the pen will just follow the line. Mistakes hurt since the ink is permanent, so just go slow and try not to be hopped up on sugar and caffeine when you're doing it.

[maX energ]

ha so i guess im not the only one using sharpies...i used a metalic silver one to dot ALL THE BOLTS on the cab and sleeper...i messed up a little....but nothing major or even really noticable you have to be Staring at it for you to notice..i did the door handels too...later today ill have some pics!...i hope.;)